From an architecture junkie’s point of view, Barcelona is an urban sprawl of breathtaking architecture. With a peculiar modernist style known as  the”Catalan Art Noveau”, experiencing the streetscape of Barcelona can never be compared to all other European cities I’ve visited.

Art Noveau is an architectural style during the early 20th century characterized by intricate linear designs and flowing curves depicting nature’s form. Samples of this artsy architecture can be found around Europe. However, the most preserved samples stand tall and proud ’til today along the well paved streets of Barcelona.

Every block of this city is Instagram worthy.

Here are some of the snap shots I took during my 2 days stay in Barcelona. Feel free to follow my easy must see’s and must do’s. =)

 — Enjoy a leisurely walk around Playa Catalunya, which is the center of Downtown Barcelona, where bus rides from the airport terminates. Passeig de Gracia (A Main Street originating from Playa Catalunya) holds a number of buildings designed by the famous Spanish architect, Antoni Gaudi.

— Visit the Sagrada Familia late in the afternoon. Several blocks further (yet still walkable) from Passeig de Gracia is the famous Basilica de Sagrada Familia. Entrance fee to this Unesco protected site is 15 Euros, including the Museum (non-agency purchase). Lines for the ticket can be long, but as read from other blogs, I lined up at around high noon, about 12, when tourists are likely to have lunch. True enough I only waited for around 15 minutes. Entry to the basilica is regulated to every 15 minutes. I took the 4pm slot, as advised, to get the full experience as the sun sets on the west, pouring much light to stained glass windows. late afternoon visit is also ideal to be able to catch the daily mass at 6 pm at the crypt.

The Facade and interior details of the Basilica ( Refer to my previous post on this) https://iamjosemanuel.com/2016/01/05/a-peek-inside-the-sagrada-familia/

Apart from its imposing structure from the outside, what really amazed me is how the interior achieved a truly magnificent play of light and color as produced by the stained glass windows from all corners.

— Walk around the Passeig La Rambla, and towards the pier. This area is the liveliest from day to night. Affordable buffet style restaurants can be found when walking towards the pier.

— Range over Mercat de Santa Caterina. This public market is stone throws away from Barcelona Cathedral.

CHEAP EATS AROUND PLAYA CATALUNYA

Dining on a budget is easy in Barcelona. Here are some of the cheap finds around Playa Catalunya and La Rambla.

— Indulge in Spanish cuisines, buffet style. Buffets are a common thing in Barcelona, and are fairly affordable at around 9 to 12 Euros, usually including unlimited beer.  I had buffet style lunch for two straight days. haha. Lunch buffet start late at around 1pm. Maybe it is of a cultural thing since Spanish people often enjoy afternoon siestas. Some stores even close around lunch time.

— Sample Some Tapas and beer for some Spanish Style pre-meal. Beer and Tapa set is usually a late afternoon thing in Barcelona. Not pricey really if you are keen on finding one. I had a plate of tapa and two bottles of beer for only 7 Euros at a Bar near Sagrada Familia.

The usual morning thing, Tapa Sandwiches on the go. Its good and it is cheap.

I only had two days stay in Barcelona and I must admit that I was  not able to fully explore the amazing city. Well, that then gives me a good reason to go back. =)